Description
Eggs in Purgatory is a rustic Italian breakfast dish featuring eggs gently poached in a rich, garlicky tomato sauce. This comforting meal is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner and is best served with crusty toasted bread.
Ingredients
Tomato Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Eggs and Garnish
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat the oil: In a skillet over medium heat, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil to prepare for cooking the aromatic base.
- Sauté the onion: Cook the diced onion in the hot oil until softened and translucent, which brings out its sweetness and flavor.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Prepare the tomato sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and season with 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional), salt, and black pepper to taste. Stir well and let the sauce simmer gently for about 10 minutes to develop deep flavors.
- Crack the eggs: Using a spoon, make four small wells in the simmering sauce and carefully crack one egg into each well without breaking the yolks.
- Cook the eggs: Cover the skillet with a lid and cook the eggs for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the whites are set but yolks remain runny, adjusting time if you prefer firmer yolks.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the eggs and sauce with grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped basil or parsley. Serve immediately with toasted crusty bread for dipping.
Notes
- Adjust the cooking time to achieve your preferred egg yolk consistency—less time for runny yolks, more for firmer yolks.
- Add fresh spinach or kale to the tomato sauce for extra vegetables and nutrients.
- This dish is best enjoyed immediately for optimal flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
